Senators pass Iron Range unemployment extension

ST. PAUL -- Two Iron Range senators made emotional pleas Thursday to extend unemployment benefits for thousands of men and women who have lost jobs due to a steel price crisis, and senators responded by passing the legislation 62-3.

"I wish we weren't here with this bill," Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk, D-Cook, said because it means his Iron Range is in trouble.

Sen. David Tomassoni, D-Chisholm, said the bill he sponsored is the most important of his 24-year legislative career because it involves families who are hurting.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/region/3984200-senators-pass-iron-range-unemployment-extension